Metabolic changes in Singapore women using NORPLANT® implants: A four year review

Abstract

In this longitudinal study, the metabolic changes seen in Singapore women using NORPLANT® was evaluated. With respect to liver function, there was still a significant increase in serum bilirubin. However the total proteins and globulin returned to their preinsertion values. This probably indicates that the possible Hepatocellular dysfunction is returning to normal. As regards lipid metabolism, total triglycerides and cholesterol were still significantly decreased at the end of four years. The LDL remained at its preinsertion value. The HDL-cholesterol showed a significant increase in the first year, it then decreased in the subsequent two years to stabilize in the fourth year. Despite this the HDL Cholesterol/Total Cholesterol - HDL Cholesterol remained above 0.200. The findings though speculative, still appear to indicate NORPLANT® use to be not directly contributory to cardiovascular risk. The use of NORPLANT® was not associated with any significant effects on carbohydrate metabolism.